Police end case on abusive officer

The police investigation into an officer's expletive-laden rant is over. Dyllan Vaughan recorded the September 3 conversation between him and the officer.

UNIMPRESSED: Dyllan Vaughan recorded a tirade of abuse by a policeman. Vaughan was sentenced this week for a raft of charges after leading police on a high-speed chase last year.

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The police investigation into a policeman's expletive-laden rant at a teenage driver from Foxton is over, after they were unable to identify the officer in question.

Dyllan Vaughan made a complaint to the Independent Police Conduct Authority after an officer called him a "dickhead" and "idiot", allegedly because he thought the 17-year-old had pulled the fingers at him.

Vaughan, who is the same person who was sentenced this week for a raft of charges after leading police on a high-speed chase through Manawatu last year, recorded the September 3 conversation between him and the officer.

A police spokesperson said the incident had been investigated extensively but the officer responsible was unable to be found.

"We do not believe there is any further action that police can make with respect to this matter.

"We have remained in frequent communication with Mr Vaughan on this matter and have communicated our outcome to him."

The investigation had included showing Vaughan photos of police officers so he could try identify the officer, police said.

"The police report on this matter has been sent to the IPCA and is currently waiting their review."

Previously, Inspector Mark Harrison of Palmerston North police said he had played the recording to "everyone" at the city's station.

However, no-one had recognised the voice or admitted it was them, he said.

Vaughan declined the chance to comment to the Manawatu Standard yesterday, but previously told Fairfax Media the incident made him feel intimidated.

"When someone comes to the window and starts abusing you and they're supposed to be a respected member of the public, it doesn't feel great," he said.